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How to Talk to Parents About the Importance of Dental Health

Encouraging parents and caregivers to prioritize oral hygiene is an important way for you to help prevent oral disease in children. In a few minutes during a well-child visit, you can educate families about nutrition, preventing saliva transfer from parent to child, good brushing habits, and the need to establish a dental home where families can find routine preventive care.

Here are a few suggestions for things you may want to address with families:

Talk to caregivers about the importance of oral health care, including age-appropriate brushing habits, early detection of decay, and good nutrition

When talking to families, be aware of their attitudes toward dental care and address any questions or concerns they may have about caring for their child’s oral health

Keep messages clear, short, and simple

Use a variety of methods to help parents learn about oral heath and get the skills they need to prevent dental disease. Exam room posters, picture handouts, and hands-on demonstrations are all effective ways to communicate your message

Encourage parents to take an active role in caring for their child’s teeth at all stages—even before the first tooth erupts

Inspire parents to model good oral health practices like brushing their teeth twice a day, flossing once a day, visiting a dentist regularly, and eating healthy foods